Handcrafted Leather Butterfly Chairs — Cowhide & Buffalo Leather
A leather butterfly chair is more than furniture — it is a handcrafted statement piece that brings timeless character, artisan quality, and effortless comfort to any room. At Parrys Leather World, every butterfly chair is hand-stitched by skilled artisans using 100% genuine leather — available in natural cowhide and premium buffalo leather — with a durable powder-coated steel frame built to last a lifetime.
⭐ 4.84 from 200+ verified buyers | Since 2015 | 50+ Styles | Free Worldwide Shipping | From $219
What Is a Leather Butterfly Chair?
A leather butterfly chair — also known as a BKF chair, Hardoy chair, sling chair, or safari chair — is a classic furniture design originally created in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1938 by architects Antonio Bonet, Juan Kurchan, and Jorge Ferrari Hardoy. The name "BKF" comes from the initials of its three creators.
The design features a large leather sling suspended from the four highest points of a collapsible metal frame, creating a hammock-like seat that cradles the body naturally. When crafted from genuine leather — whether cowhide or buffalo — each chair develops a unique patina over time, becoming more beautiful with every year of use.
Today, the leather butterfly chair is one of the most recognised and sought-after accent chairs worldwide, loved by interior designers, homeowners, and furniture collectors for its timeless silhouette, portability, and artisanal character.
Also known as: BKF Chair | Hardoy Chair | Leather Sling Chair | Safari Chair | Mariposa Chair | Leather Lounge Chair | Leather Accent Chair
Cowhide vs Buffalo Leather — Which Should You Choose?
At Parrys Leather World, our butterfly chairs are available in two premium natural leathers. Here is how they compare:
Cowhide Leather Butterfly Chair
Cowhide leather comes from cattle hide and is available in stunning natural patterns — brown and white, black and white, brindle, salt and pepper, and speckled. Because no two cowhide hides are identical, every cowhide butterfly chair is a completely unique, one-of-a-kind piece. The natural hair-on texture or smooth full-grain surface adds rustic warmth and visual character to any space. Ideal for western, bohemian, farmhouse, and eclectic interiors.
Buffalo Leather Butterfly Chair
Buffalo leather is renowned for its exceptional strength, deep grain texture, and rich natural appearance. Thicker and more structured than standard cowhide, buffalo full-grain leather develops a deep, luxurious patina over time — darkening and softening beautifully with regular use. Available in a wide range of solid colours and natural finishes. Ideal for mid-century modern, industrial, contemporary, and classic interiors.
Both options share:
- 100% full-grain genuine leather (not faux, not bonded)
- Solid brass or powder-coated steel hardware
- Hand-stitched edges with reinforced canvas lining
- Collapsible, lightweight steel frame
- Free worldwide shipping
What Makes Our Butterfly Chairs Different?
At Parrys Leather World, we have been handcrafting leather butterfly chairs since 2015. Every chair is built with three non-negotiables: premium materials, ethical sourcing, and genuine artisan craftsmanship.
Material
100% full-grain leather — the highest quality grade available. Unlike bonded or faux leather, it does not crack or peel. It develops a rich natural patina over time, becoming softer and more beautiful with every year of use.
Frame
Durable powder-coated steel in matte black or natural iron finish. Foldable and lightweight — easy to move between rooms, store flat, or bring outdoors.
Craftsmanship
Every chair is hand-stitched by experienced artisans. Edges are reinforced with canvas lining and corners are double-stitched. No machine shortcuts — just traditional leatherworking craftsmanship.
Where to Use a Leather Butterfly Chair
🏠 Living Room — A statement accent chair beside a sofa or fireplace. The natural leather texture adds warmth and visual interest to both neutral and bold colour schemes.
📚 Reading Nook or Bedroom — The sling-style seat cradles the body perfectly for long reading sessions. Pair it with a floor lamp and side table for the ideal reading setup.
💻 Home Office — A leather lounge chair that adds personality to any workspace. Works in boho, farmhouse, western, and mid-century modern interiors.
🌲 Patio or Outdoor Space — The lightweight, foldable frame makes it easy to bring outside. Bring indoors after use for long-term care.
Interior styles it suits: Bohemian | Western & Ranch | Farmhouse & Rustic | Mid-Century Modern | Industrial Loft | Contemporary | Eclectic
Why Choose Parrys Leather World?
✓ Handcrafted since 2015 — Over a decade of artisan leatherworking experience in every chair we produce.
✓ Genuine full-grain leather — not faux — Many competitors sell faux or bonded leather at similar price points. Every Parrys chair uses real leather that lasts for decades.
✓ Workshop-direct pricing — We manufacture directly from our own workshop with no middlemen, giving you authentic quality at honest prices.
✓ 4.84★ from 200+ verified buyers — Customers consistently praise the leather quality, frame durability, and craftsmanship of our butterfly chairs.
✓ Free worldwide shipping — Every butterfly chair ships free to any address worldwide.
✓ Ethically sourced leather — Our leather is a byproduct of the food industry. We work only with suppliers who follow ethical and sustainable hide-sourcing practices.
Buyer's Guide — How to Choose the Right Leather Butterfly Chair
1. Choose Your Leather Type
Cowhide for a natural, one-of-a-kind pattern with rustic character. Buffalo leather for a richer, deeper texture and a more classic, solid-colour finish. Both are full-grain and will last for decades.
2. Check the Frame
Look for powder-coated steel or tubular iron. Steel frames are stronger, more stable, and resist rust. Check that the frame has a secure locking mechanism when folded.
3. Stitching Quality
Hand-stitched edges with reinforced canvas lining are a sign of quality. Machine-stitched or glued edges weaken faster under regular use.
4. Price Range
A genuine leather butterfly chair between $150–$300 from a reputable brand represents real value. Chairs priced under $100 are almost certainly faux materials. Our collection starts at $219 — genuine full-grain artisan work at an honest price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a leather butterfly chair?
A leather butterfly chair is a classic mid-century furniture design featuring a genuine leather sling suspended from the four corner points of a collapsible metal frame. Also known as a BKF chair, Hardoy chair, or leather sling chair, it was originally designed in Argentina in 1938. When made from genuine leather — cowhide or buffalo — it becomes a durable, timeless piece that improves with age.
What is the difference between cowhide and buffalo leather butterfly chairs?
Cowhide butterfly chairs feature natural hair-on hide or smooth full-grain cattle leather — often with striking natural patterns like brown and white or brindle. No two are identical. Buffalo leather butterfly chairs use thicker, more structured leather with a deeper grain and are available in a wider range of solid colours. Both are genuine full-grain leather and will develop a patina over time.
Is a leather butterfly chair comfortable?
Yes. The sling-style seat naturally conforms to the shape of the body, distributing weight evenly in a hammock-like position. Most users find it extremely comfortable for reading, lounging, and relaxing. Comfort improves as the leather breaks in and softens over time.
How long does a leather butterfly chair last?
A genuine full-grain leather butterfly chair with a powder-coated steel frame can last 10 to 20 years or more with basic care. Full-grain leather resists tearing, develops character over time, and does not crack or peel the way bonded or faux leather does.
How do I clean a leather butterfly chair?
Wipe down with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust. For stains, use a mild leather cleaner applied with a soft cloth. Avoid soaking the leather in water. Apply a leather conditioner every 6 to 12 months to keep the leather supple. Keep out of prolonged direct sunlight.
Can a leather butterfly chair be used outdoors?
Yes, with care. The lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to bring to a patio or garden. Bring the chair indoors when not in use and avoid leaving it in rain or prolonged direct sunlight.
What is the weight limit?
Most genuine leather butterfly chairs with a powder-coated steel frame support between 250 lbs and 300 lbs. Check the specific product listing for exact weight capacity.
How do I assemble a leather butterfly chair?
Assembly requires no tools. Unfold the frame, lock the support legs into position, drape the leather sling over the four upper corner points, and press down lightly to settle. Most customers complete assembly in under five minutes. A diagram is included with every chair.
Is leather ethically sourced?
Yes. Cowhide and buffalo leather are byproducts of the food industry — the hide would otherwise go to waste. We source all leather from ethically managed suppliers. Genuine leather is also biodegradable and far more environmentally responsible than faux leather made from petroleum-based plastics.
Shop the Full Collection
Whether you are looking for a cowhide butterfly chair with natural hide patterns, a rich buffalo leather sling chair in a classic colour, or a statement lounge chair for a boho bedroom or mid-century living room — Parrys Leather World has a style for every space.
50+ unique styles. All handcrafted by artisans. Free worldwide shipping. Starting from $219.
✓ Free Worldwide Shipping ✓ Genuine Full-Grain Leather ✓ Handcrafted Since 2015 ✓ From $219
Handcrafted Leather Butterfly Chair in USA
